How can we guard against slander as advised in Psalm 101:5? Slander Silenced—Psalm 101:5 “Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not endure.” (Psalm 101:5) What Scripture Calls Slander • Malicious, false, or damaging words spoken about someone behind his or her back • Whispered judgments that tear down reputations instead of seeking truth and restoration • A partnership with pride: the verse links slander to “haughty eyes and a proud heart” God treats slander as a serious sin because it openly violates both the ninth commandment (Exodus 20:16) and the call to love our neighbor (Leviticus 19:18; Romans 13:9). Why God Will “Put to Silence” the Slanderer • Slander destroys unity in the covenant community (Proverbs 16:28). • It ignites conflict as quickly as a small spark sets a forest ablaze (James 3:5–6). • It flows from pride, the very attitude God opposes (James 4:6). • The Lord guards His people; He will not allow the innocent to be shredded by hidden tongues forever (Psalm 12:5). Guard Your Heart First “The mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” (Luke 6:45) • Feed your heart on truth through regular, thoughtful reading of Scripture (Psalm 119:11). • Pray for a “steadfast spirit” (Psalm 51:10) so your tongue is anchored in purity, not envy or anger. Practical Ways to Block Slander Before It Starts • Pause and test motives – Ask, “Am I sharing this to build up or to tear down?” (Ephesians 4:29). • Verify facts – “A fool gives full vent to his spirit” (Proverbs 29:11); the wise confirm details before they speak. • Choose silence over speculation – “Where words are many, sin is unavoidable” (Proverbs 10:19). • Redirect conversations – If gossip surfaces, steer it toward prayer or positive truth (Philippians 4:8). • Speak directly, not secretly – Matthew 18:15 instructs going to a brother privately, not murmuring about him elsewhere. • Celebrate others’ successes – Cultivating gratitude disarms jealousy, a common root of slander (1 Peter 2:1). • Remember future accountability – “We will all stand before the judgment seat of God” (Romans 14:10–12). Set Up Accountability • Invite trusted believers to correct you when your words drift toward slander (Proverbs 27:6, 17). • Keep short accounts: confess quickly when you slip (1 John 1:9). • Memorize key verses together; let Scripture guard group conversations (Colossians 3:16). Living Out Psalm 101:5 Today David pledged to silence slander in his own house; believers can mirror that determination by establishing a zero-tolerance policy for whisper campaigns in homes, churches, and workplaces. As we submit our tongues to the Lord, we become safe places where truth flourishes, reputations are protected, and Christ is honored in every word. |
    |